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John Baumgartner was recently recognized in the Winter 2012-13 Colorado High School Coaches Association’s “Colorado Coach” publication.

He received an achievement award for 250 wins as the Holyoke High School boys’ basketball coach. For 20 years of coaching, he also earned the longevity award.

Baumgartner began coaching junior high basketball in Holyoke in 1990. He served as the high school boys’ basketball coach from 1994-2010.

Over those 16 seasons, the HHS boys won eight district and regional championships, out of nine appearances at regionals.

According to the CHSAA website, Holyoke is tied for third for the most state tournament appearances at 14, with eight of those during Baumgartner’s time as a coach (1996, 2003-06 and 2008-10).

The Dragons claimed runner-up honors in 1996 and 2009, finally bringing home the gold ball and the championship title in 2010.

“It’s not about the coach; it’s about the kids,” said Baumgartner, noting how blessed he was to have great kids around him.

“The best part is the relationship with the kids,” he said, which is something that continues past the basketball court. The long-time Dragon basketball coach also gave credit to the people who supported him as athletic directors, coaches and school staff.